Cambeltown New Quay helps the renewable energy industry

Work has started on the £4.6 million New Quay in Campbeltown.

The contract is being carried out on behalf of Argyll and Bute Council and is part of the Kintyre Renewables Hub project which will see Campbeltown and Machrihanish develop as a centre for the renewable energy industry in Scotland.

The area already has strong links with the renewable energy sector and the works will assist in creating a national “hub” for the renewable energy industry. The project will create significant employment opportunities and will promote sustainable economic development at the local, Argyll and Bute and Scottish levels.

The project began in February 2012 and is due to be completed in October 2012. The contract is being carried out by BAM Nuttall Limited.

South Kintyre Councillor Rory Colville said:

“I’m delighted to see this work getting underway. It will make a real difference to Campbeltown. I’m confident it will encourage more business to the area. This project is just one of a number in development which will soon reach implementation stage.

“Elsewhere in Campbeltown work has already begun on the construction of 32 new flats and terraced homes at the Kinloch Road regeneration site. It’s expected this will be finished in early 2013. A tender is also out for the construction of passing places between the Machrihanish junction and Campbeltown also in connection with the Kintyre Renewables Hub.”

 

The work involves putting new piles along the length of the New Quay on the inner harbour side, constructing a new concrete ground slab over the Quay, dredging the adjacent sea bed and widening the road at the Old Quay head by reclaiming a small part of the inner harbour. This will make it easier to transport wind turbine components and other freight.

Allan Finlay, Technical Officer at Argyll and Bute Council said:

“In essence the works are designed to help future proof the port of Campbeltown for changes in both vessels and equipment, particularly for the renewables sector.

 Whilst the improvements are not necessarily visible there will be enhanced capacity for deeper draughted ships and the quayside is specifically designed to accommodate crane loads up to 1000t.

With the prospect of major renewable projects in the waters off the west coast of Argyll, these improvements will place the port of Campbeltown in a strong position to help service the proposed schemes.”